Napoleon’s Views on the British Occupation of Corsica

Young Napoleon was a passionate Corsican nationalist, deeply influenced by the history and struggles of his native island. During the late 18th century, Corsica experienced significant political upheavals, including the British occupation, which deeply affected the young Bonaparte and shaped his early views on nationalism and governance.

Background and Context

Befor Corsica fell under the dominion of the thalassocratic Italian maritime Republic of Genoa in the 17th century, the island had a rich tapestry of rulers, from the Romans to the Pisans, and eventually to the Genoese. In 1755, Corsicans led by Pasquale Paoli declared independence, establishing a republic based on Enlightenment principles and female suffrage, marking a significant departure from previous governance.

The British Occupation and Corsican Sentiments

In 1769, the British formally annexed Corsica, following the defeat of Genoa. This occupation deeply resonated with young Napoleon, who had grown up in a politically charged environment. His father, Carlo Buonaparte, and his mother, Letizia Ramolino, were supporters of the exiled Corsican leader Pasquale Paoli, and these views rubbed off on Napoleon.

Napoleon's Nationalist Views

Napoleon advocated for the Corsican population to begin guerrilla operations against their French occupiers, as he viewed them as invaders. He wrote several passionate letters expressing his disapproval of the French rule and encouraged Corsicans to resist their oppressors. In his correspondence, he wrote, "help them as men, but kill them as French."

Napoleon also criticized those Corsicans who accepted their new French overlords, labeling them "collaborators or cowards." He stressed the "monstrous nature of French rule over the island." Through his writings, he drew on the memories of previous rulers, highlighting Corsica's long history of resistance.

The Role of Pasquale Paoli

Paolo, the exiled leader, played a significant role in shaping Napoleon's views. Napoleon revered Pasquale and idolized his vision of a free Corsica. He even wrote to Pasquale, sharing his plans to write a history of Corsica, although Pasquale was hesitant due to Napoleon's youth.

The Shift in Napoleon's Stance

Following the French Revolution, Napoleon's views began to evolve. As France transitioned into an era of liberty, equality, and fraternity, Corsica remained stagnant. Napoleon recognized the need for Corsica to move forward within the new French framework and spent the early 1790s on the island attempting to instigate this change. However, his goal was not independence but integration into France.

The vision of Corsican independence clashed with Napoleon's new ambitions. This disagreement led to a falling out with Pasquale Paoli. As a result, Napoleon, along with his family, left Corsica in 1793, marking the end of his early nationalist fervor. His aspirations now extended beyond the island of his birth.

Conclusion

The British occupation of Corsica left a lasting impact on young Napoleon Bonaparte. His views on governance and national identity were deeply influenced by the complexity of his island's history. While his early years were marked by a strong emphasis on independence, the French Revolution and his ambitions for France led to a significant shift in his stance. Despite his desire for a united and free Corsica, Napoleon's later focus was on the broader concept of France, symbolizing the transformation of his ideals over time.